The Long Game

12-Attribute Reference Card
Inspired by Rich Diviney's research on performance under pressure. Adapted for youth sports by Frank Sellhausen.

Skills are what your kid uses when things go right.
Attributes are what they use when things go wrong.

Grit
Perseverance
Continuing to work toward a goal when it gets hard, boring, or uncomfortable.
Composure
Managing emotions in high-pressure or frustrating moments instead of shutting down.
Mental Agility
Adaptability
Adjusting your approach when the first plan isn't working.
Focus
Staying locked in on what matters right now, even when there are distractions.
Heart
Courage
Trying something difficult or scary even when you might fail.
Integrity
Doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
Self-Mastery
Discipline
Doing what needs to be done even when you don't feel like it.
Accountability
Owning your mistakes without blaming others or making excuses.
Connection
Teamwork
Putting the group's success ahead of your own spotlight.
Communication
Expressing what you need and listening to what others need.
Growth
Resilience
Bouncing back after a setback and using it as fuel, not a wall.
Curiosity
Asking "why did that work?" and "what can I try differently?" instead of just moving on.

How to Use This Card

Language Shifts to Listen For

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